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עברית
אלמלא — meaning in English: were it not for
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Guess the translation for
if not
אלמלא
ilmale
הקרויה
hakruya
למקרה
lamikre
התוכנית
hatokhnit
נפגשו
nifgeshu
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formal
intermediate
Usage
Native speakers commonly use 'אלמלא' in conversations about hypothetical situations, especially when discussing causality or conditions. For example, one might say, 'אלמלא היה שם גשם, היינו עושים פיקניק,' meaning 'Were it not for the rain, we would have gone on a picnic.' This expression is particularly prevalent in more serious discussions or debates.
Synonyms & nuances
'אלמלא' can be compared to the word 'לו' (lu), which also indicates a hypothetical situation. However, 'אלמלא' carries a slightly stronger sense of regret or consequence, making it more suitable for contexts where the implications of a situation are more serious or significant.
Culture
'אלמלא' has its roots in classical Hebrew and is often found in literature and poetry, reflecting a sense of philosophical thought. The term encapsulates the idea of counterfactuality, which is prevalent in many cultures, showing how language can shape our understanding of alternate realities and decisions.
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